Tours Set to Lead France’s Regional Rail Revolution with Metropolitan Express Network by 2040

The first step France has taken is to change how mobility happens in The Centre-Val de Loire region, with plans to build the first Regional Metropolitan Express Service in the country. This builds around the City of Tours. The Centre-Val de Loire region will change how medium-sized French cities plan daily travel, as by 2040, they will have an extensive network of trains that run more frequently, will have wider coverage, and will be using cleaner trains/ rail.

With 520,000, the Tours metropolitan area is very populated. Currently in this area, the rail lines and each train direction have about 10 trains a day, which is very inefficient. The new plans aim to change this by using predictive timetables which will be similar to the express rail systems in the continental capitals.

Why the Tours Network Matters for France

Centre-Val de Loire became the first French region to submit a fully developed metropolitan express plan to the national government. Other cities, including Toulouse, Rouen, and Strasbourg, later followed with their own proposals. The Tours plan now sets the reference model for future regional express systems across the country.

The network focuses on eight existing rail corridors radiating from Tours. Instead of building entirely new lines, the region will upgrade infrastructure, stations, and trains to maximise the value of the current network. This approach aligns with national transport strategies published on official French government platforms, which prioritise rail modernisation, emissions reduction, and regional accessibility.

Clear Timetable and Simple Promise for Passengers

The project follows an inverted pyramid rollout, starting with immediate service improvements and expanding steadily over time. The core promise stays simple: at least one train per hour, from early morning until late evening, on weekdays.

By the final stage, most routes will operate between 05:00 and 23:00, making rail a realistic option for commuters, students, and leisure travellers alike. Peak-hour services will increase further on high-demand routes.

Phase One by 2030 Focuses on Quick Wins

The first phase targets early results using existing trains. By 2030, services on the lines to Port-de-Piles and Chinon will run more frequently. Infrastructure upgrades will support these changes, including a new turnback facility at Port-de-Piles.

The region also plans to open new interchange stations. Joué-Gutenberg will connect lines towards Chinon and Loches. Les Gués de Veigné will strengthen access on the Loches corridor. Government-verified planning documents confirm that these stations will improve connectivity without major land acquisition.

Battery Trains Replace Diesel in the Second Phase

Between 2030 and 2035, the project enters its most transformative stage. Centre-Val de Loire will retire its ageing diesel fleet and introduce battery electric multiple units (BEMUs). These trains will recharge at selected points using short sections of overhead electrification, a solution already endorsed by national rail authorities.

This phase expands services on routes to Blois, Saumur, Loches, Château-du-Loir, and Bléré-La Croix. Peak services will run every 30 minutes on the busiest sections, including routes to Amboise and Saumur. A new cross-city service will also link Blois and Saumur via Tours, improving regional flow.

Infrastructure Upgrades Unlock Faster and More Reliable Travel

Rail speed and reliability will improve alongside frequency. On the Loches line, the current speed limit of 85 km/h will increase after targeted track upgrades. A new stop at Mettray will serve growing residential areas north of Tours.

The project also includes a new interchange at Tours-Verdun, designed to connect rail passengers directly with the city’s tram network. This aligns with national urban mobility guidance published by French transport authorities.

Final Phase by 2040 Completes the Network

Around 2040, the final stage will bring hourly stopping services to Vendôme, alongside half-hourly peak services to Loches and Rivarennes. Engineers will double key single-track sections and add new passing loops to support the higher frequency.

Total infrastructure investment will range between €411 million and €746 million, excluding rolling stock. Annual operating costs will rise as services expand, reflecting the shift towards a metro-style timetable.

Funding Model Backed by Public Authorities

The Centre-Val de Loire regional government and the Tours metropolitan authority will fund infrastructure, trains, and operating costs, with additional support from central government programmes. Other local authorities will finance interchange stations, especially those near motorways, where private investment may also play a role.

Official budget documents show that the project does not rely heavily on national funding, reducing exposure to state budget uncertainty.

Practical Guide for Travellers and Tourists

Thanks to the new network, travellers will enjoy simplified travels and improved planning.

Timetables with predictable hourly departures will make planning easier. No more complicated planning with day trips from Tours to other cities like Blois, Saumur, or Chinon. Heritage towns, vineyards and attractions in the Loire Valley can be accessed easily using rail instead of driving. Once the Verdun interchange opens, there will be easier tram and rail connections in Tours. Battery trains will also make for quieter and cleaner journeys since they will replace the older diesel units.

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